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In a partnership focused on providing education and encouragement to Sacramento makers, Sierra College has provided soldering kits and a high-end 3d printer to Hacker Lab. Sacramento Hacker Lab is a place where retirees, artists, students, entrepreneurs and hobbyists come to create in a hands-on fabricating space. The partnership between the two is perfect because both Sierra College and Hacker Lab have a shared interest in innovation, education and technology.

3D Printer Trainingfor Non-Traditional Students and Entrepreneurs

Many colleges are establishing 3D printing laboratories and educational programs that are open to the public, similar to the joint project between Sierra College and Hacker Lab. According to some experts, the 3D printing industry is expected to grow by 14 percent between 2012 and 2017. By the year 2020, it is expected to become a $5.2 billion dollar industry and has the potential to change the way we manufacture and produce just about everything.

This is great news for workers who have become displaced in the economic upheaval since 2008. Training programs for new 3D printing careers are starting to spring up around the country to help prepare the next wave of 3D makers, innovators and entrepreneurs.

Some potential career paths involving 3D printing are:

3D Computer-Aided Design and Modeling

Experts in computer-aided design (CAD) have the ability to convert product concept designs into digital, 3D blueprints that a 3D printer can use.

3D Research and Development

There is expected to be a flood of migration from traditional manufacturing methods to 3D printer manufacturing and employers will need workers skilled at converting products into 3D print-compatible designs.

Scientific and Biological Modeling

There is tremendous potential for 3D printing in the fields of medicine, biology and science. Recently, a team of surgeons saved a newborn's life with a 3D printed tracheal splint. Around the world, innovators are finding new and inexpensive ways to use 3D printing to create custom prostheses for patients with missing limbs.

These are only a few of the many potential careers being spawned by the revolution in 3D printing. If you are looking to re-establish your career, gain new marketable skills or are just plain fascinated by 3D printing, consider getting some 3D printing training.